I don’t like that surfing shit. Rock ‘n Roll’s been going downhill ever since Buddy Holly died. -American Graffiti

Surfing is the coolest. With surf-inspired lo-fi pop on the rise in the last year or so via bands like The Drums, Surfer’s Blood, Wavves, Crystal Stilts (thank you tidal waxing) it’s easier to conch out on the sound swells and pipelines of significant American music tanning the gamut from 60s Teen Idol Frankie Avalon to early 90s Estrus Records Trash. So Hang-Loose, Drop-In and Duck Dive into My Top Ten Collection of Super Cool Surf Jams.

10 Weezer Surfwax America



The Blue Album is a melodic pop-rock masterpiece built on the sandy foundation of Brian Wilson’s beach craze.





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9 The Jesus & Mary Chain Kill Surf City



Just when you think it’s okay to have a good time at the beach, TJ&MC show up to remind you that the ocean (and love) will take your life and wash your bloated remains up on shore.



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8 Jonathan Richman & The Modern Lovers Modern World



Nantucket is no surfing slouch and even if it was, Jonathan Richman could surf the desert sand if he wanted.



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7 Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet Any Song



Of all the surf-instrumental groups (first or second wave), Shadowy Men are my fave.



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6 Morrissey Everyday Is Like Sunday



As significant as Normandy.



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5 Ramones Rockaway Beach



Not sure what the waves are like in Queens but the Ramones shred them hard.



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4 Chris Isaak Wicked Game



A paradise that exists somewhere between Blue Hawaii and Blue Velvet (perhaps in a Blue Hotel).



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3 The Pixies Dig For Fire



The very best of New Wave and Surf Music crafted on the shores of another planet and kindly brought to Earth by Frank Black & Co.



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2 Sparks Let’s Go Surfing



Beach Blanket Bingo comes to the Arthouse. AKA Best Surf Song to reference Richard Wagner, Charles Dickens, and Billy Shakespeare.



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1 The Ventures Walk Don’t Run



As straight forward and powerful as the waves themselves. This says it all!